IIT Mandi Researchers have Developed Biodegradable Polymeric Microgels for Sustainable Agriculture
A research team from the Indian Institute of Technology Mandi has developed natural polymer-based multifunctional smart microgels for the slow release of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizers over an extended period. These microgels offer a promising solution to enhance crop nutrition while minimizing environmental impact, as global populations are expected to reach an estimated 10 billion by 2050. Traditional nitrogen and P fertilizers have low absorption rates, making them inefficient in optimizing agricultural output. Modern agriculture heavily relies on fertilizer applications to meet the growing population's food demand. However, their effectiveness is often compromised by factors such as gaseous volatilization and leaching, leading to high costs and adverse effects on the environment, including groundwater and soil contamination. Therefore, developing technological alternatives that prolong fertilizer release is essential for sustainable agriculture practices. The findings of the study, published in the prestigious journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces by the American Chemical Society, were led by Dr. Garima Agrawal and her team. The microgel formulation is cost-effective, biodegradable, and eco-friendly, and can be applied by mixing it into the soil or spraying it on plant leaves. Recent studies with maize plants have shown that the formulation greatly improves maize seed germination and overall plant growth compared to pure urea fertilizer. These findings pave the way for sustainable agriculture, offering a promising solution to optimize nutrient supply, enhance crop yields, and mitigate environmental challenges associated with traditional fertilizers.
